The 11th Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum (DRIF) is currently taking place in Accra, with a focus on enhancing collaboration and knowledge-sharing in the digital space.
Organized by the Pan-African organization, Paradigm Initiative (PIN), the event aims to deepen participants’ understanding of the challenges, opportunities, and threats in the digital landscape, while also reiterating the importance of advancing digital rights and inclusion for all.
Dr. Aida Opoku-Mensah, Board Vice Chair of PIN, emphasized the forum’s agenda, which covers critical sub-themes such as Trust and Accountability, Data Protection, Privacy and Surveillance, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, and Digital Inclusion and Marginalized Groups.
These sessions are designed to inspire meaningful action and drive positive change towards a more equitable and just digital future.
One of the highlights of the forum is the premiere of PIN’s 4th Short Film, “Undersight,” which showcases the power of storytelling in driving social change and sparking advocacy efforts.
With a diverse range of offerings, DRIF24 promises an engaging and enriching experience for all participants, urging them to commit to advancing digital rights and inclusion while embracing diversity of thought and perspective.
Gbenga Sesan, Executive Director of PIN, presented a historical overview of the organization, tracing its evolution from grassroots beginnings to its current status.
He emphasized the platform’s core objective of inspiring tangible actions in the pursuit of digital rights and inclusion, highlighting its significant growth in global participation over the years.
DRIF24 is hosting over 600 participants, with a primary focus on promoting digital rights and inclusion in Africa. The forum offers a rich selection of 80 sessions under the theme “Fostering Rights and Inclusion in the Digital Age,” addressing key issues such as digital threats to election integrity in Africa.
Experts from various countries will explore successful tactics in defending digital rights and promoting election integrity, with a regional focus on strengthening networks and information spaces for voters.
Overall, DRIF24 serves as a vital platform for driving conversations, collaboration, and action towards a more inclusive and rights-based digital future.
Participants are encouraged to engage actively in the forum’s sessions and initiatives, contributing to the advancement of digital rights and the safeguarding of democratic processes in the digital age.
